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FIFA World Cup 2026: China’s ‘Strict’ Referee Poised to Make His Mark as World Cup Representative

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China has failed to qualify for this year’s FIFA World Cup. However, the nation will still have a “representative” in the tournament—a referee. Fans from China will be supporting 46-year-old referee Ma Ning during the World Cup, which is set to kick off on Thursday, June 11, across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Numerous memes featuring images of Ma Ning have gone viral. Prominent brands like technology company Lenovo and electronics manufacturer Hisense, among others, have sponsored him. Ma Ning is known for his strict demeanor. In a 2015 match held in Shanghai, he issued seven yellow cards and three red cards, earning him the nickname “Card Master” for showing the highest number of cards in a single game as a referee.

He first participated in a World Cup four years ago in Qatar, serving as the fourth official and assisting referees off the field. This upcoming tournament will mark his second World Cup appearance. Ma Ning is also popular on social media platforms such as Reddit and other Chinese social networks, where his content has garnered millions of views. While some users have shown support for him, others have expressed concern about the state of sports in China. One Reddit user wrote, “We have Ma Ning, who do you have?” Another commented, “Other countries get to watch their teams play, but we will watch our referee handing out cards.”

Currently, Ma Ning is attending a ten-day referee training camp in Miami, alongside two other Chinese assistant referees. Assistant referee Jo Fei and video assistant referee Fu Ming will support Ma Ning off the field in their respective roles. FIFA, the global football governing body, officially recognized Ma Ning’s refereeing experience back in 2011. He also serves as a lecturer at the Nanjing Sports Institute. To gain experience ahead of the upcoming World Cup, Ma Ning opened an account on Reddit two weeks ago. Reddit is a social media platform with popularity in China akin to Instagram.

He has already attracted thousands of followers there. In his first Reddit post, Ma Ning displayed a small red booklet tucked into the pocket of his referee shirt. This represented the platform that bears his Chinese name as well as the notoriety he has gained for issuing red cards. A red card is shown to players who commit major infractions and results in their dismissal from the pitch. Subsequent posts include videos of him packing his suitcase and working out physically in a gym in preparation for the World Cup. Dramatic music accompanies the footage, and Lenovo tablets and other equipment are prominently featured. The caption reads, “I carry out this job with confidence and determination. World Cup, here we come.”

China has only qualified for the World Cup once before, in 2002, when the team failed to win a game and was eliminated in the group stage. Since then, China has been unable to advance past the qualification rounds. Over the past two decades, Chinese football has faced financial difficulties. Additionally, accusations of corruption have led to lifetime bans for some players, referees, and club officials.

‘Madhesh Travel Mart’ Launched to Promote Tourism in Madhesh Region

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The Nepal Tourism Board has initiated a four-day ‘Madhesh Travel Mart’ to promote the tourist destinations of the Madhesh Province. According to NATTA Madhesh Province, more than 200 tourism professionals and stakeholders from Nepal and India are set to participate in this event. The fair aims to showcase the cultural and touristic attractions of all eight districts of Madhesh to the Indian market. (28 Jestha, Bara)

The Madhesh Travel Mart, organized by the Nepal Tourism Board, commenced on Thursday. NATTA Madhesh Province held a press conference on the same day in Simara, Bara, to provide details about the event. Separate programs are being held in Birgunj, Bara, and Janakpur, focusing on promoting the tourist sites of Madhesh Province along with local cuisine and culture. NATTA Madhesh Province facilitates these initiatives.

Mohan Sharma, president of NATTA Madhesh, presented information about various activities from Birgunj to Janakpur during a press briefing after the official inauguration in Birgunj on Friday. “The program is designed to highlight the culture and tourist destinations of all eight districts, including Bara and Parsa,” Sharma explained. The event is being organized with support from Birgunj Metropolitan City and Bardibas Municipality, and its secretariat is located in Jitpur Simara Sub-Metropolitan City, Bara.

According to the organizers, the four-day mart also involves co-investment from local government units. “This initiative is carried out with joint investment from the Nepal Tourism Board and local levels,” stated NATTA Madhesh Province President Sharma. The event will welcome over 200 participants from various cities in Nepal and India, including tourism professionals, tourists, content creators, and tour operators. The primary goal is to promote Madhesh’s tourist destinations within the Indian tourism market.

Vishal Shrestha Takes Oath as Vice-Chairman of National Sports Council

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Newly appointed Vice-Chairman of the National Sports Council, Vishal Shrestha, has taken oath, expressing his commitment to contributing to sports development. The council also welcomed members Monalisa Khambu, Sikka Suwal Shrestha, Shaktiprasad Gauchan, and Pawan Shahi. Ramcharitra Mehta, the council’s member secretary, briefed the new officials on the current status of sports and upcoming plans. Kathmandu, 28 Jestha.
On Wednesday, the Government of Nepal appointed Vishal Shrestha as Vice-Chairman. During the oath-taking ceremony, Vice-Chairman Shrestha emphasized his dedication to advancing sports development through collaborative efforts, transitioning from on-field sports roles to managerial responsibilities. Member Secretary Ramcharitra Mehta extended a warm welcome to Vice-Chairman Shrestha and the newly appointed members Monalisa Khambu, Sikka Suwal Shrestha, Shaktiprasad Gauchan, and Pawan Shahi, also providing updates on the current sports situation. The event was attended by Siddhi Byanjankar, Chief Advisor of the Ministry of Education and Sports, along with heads of various departments and branches of the council.

Significant Decline in Birth Rates in the US and Globally Linked to the Impact of the iPhone

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A joint study reveals that birth rates in the United States have dropped by 22 percent since the invention of the iPhone in 2007. Typically, birth rates decline as a country’s economic conditions improve. However, despite diverse social and economic contexts across various countries over the past two decades, the global trend in birth rates has been a similar steady decline. According to research conducted by the US National Bureau of Economic Research, birth rates remained stable in the US from 1980 to 2007 but have experienced a continuous drop since then. By 2024, the birth rate decreased by 22 percent, reaching 54 births per 1,000 women.

Areas with access to the iPhone have witnessed a pronounced drop in birth rates. The study focused on regions in the US where the iPhone was made available via the AT&T network between 2007 and 2011. Results showed that in these regions, birth rates among women aged 15 to 19 declined between 4.5 and 8 percent, and among women aged 20 to 24, they fell by 3.2 to 6.6 percent. Overall, between 33 and 52 percent of the decline in birth rates among women aged 15 to 44 during 2007–2011 is estimated to be attributable to the influence of the iPhone.

Regarding reasons for this decline, researchers have noted that the increasing use of smartphones has profoundly changed social behaviors. People have significantly reduced direct personal interactions and sexual activities. The rise in consumption of online adult content and digital entertainment has negatively affected lifestyles. Additionally, smartphones have provided young people easier access to information about contraception and abortion. This effect is not limited to the US alone but is evident globally. Economists from the University of Cincinnati conducted research across 128 countries and found similar results. Despite variations in healthcare systems, religions, laws, and economic conditions, widespread smartphone use is consistently linked to sharp declines in birth rates.

Rising screen time has led to decreased social interaction. In 2003, people engaged in an average of 68 minutes per day of face-to-face meetings and conversations, which dropped by 44 percent to just 38 minutes daily by 2019. Meanwhile, time spent on computers and digital devices increased from 22 minutes per day to 96 minutes—a 336 percent rise. Researchers commented that although the iPhone or smartphones alone are not solely responsible for declining birth rates, they are significant contributing factors behind this downward trend. Birth rates continue to fall in many developed and developing countries. The US has reached historically low fertility levels. In Canada, the fertility rate reached 1.25 per woman in 2024, comparable to countries like Japan, Singapore, and Spain. China abolished its one-child policy in 2016. Despite substantial investments to boost birth rates in Japan and South Korea, notable success has not been achieved, while middle-income countries such as India and Brazil are also experiencing rapid declines in birth rates.

One Dead in Mini Truck Accident in Rolpa

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28th Jestha, Dang – A mini truck accident on Thursday morning in Rolpa resulted in the death of one person at the scene. The mini truck, bearing registration number Ra 1 Kha 3045, was transporting potatoes from Ballekhola to Pokhara when the road suddenly collapsed, causing the accident. The incident occurred on the Balle-Jhinuwabhitri road in Madi Rural Municipality-1, Patle.

According to Police Inspector Sunil Thapa of the District Police Office Rolpa, the deceased has been identified as 47-year-old Chandra Bahadur Basnet, a resident of Dudilabot, Ward 4, Bagchaur Municipality, Salyan. The truck driver sustained injuries. – Rastriya Samachar Samiti

Three Indian Citizens Killed in US Military Attack in Gulf of Oman

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Three Indian citizens have died in a US military attack in the Gulf of Oman. The Indian government has strongly condemned the incident and summoned the acting head of the US Embassy in New Delhi to lodge a protest. The US military stated that the attack targeted a ship transporting oil from Iran, which they claimed violated a blockade. Kathmandu, 28 Jesth.

Three Indian nationals lost their lives in a US military strike on an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. Initially reported missing, the bodies of the three Indian citizens have now been recovered, according to Sarbanand Sonowal, India’s Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, who provided this update on Thursday. Sonowal tweeted, “This is an irreparable loss for us. The Modi government stands firmly with the bereaved families in this difficult time. The government is committed to providing all necessary assistance to the families of the deceased. I have instructed the relevant officials to ensure the rescued crew members are immediately repatriated and that the bodies of the deceased sailors are swiftly brought to India for last rites.”

Following the incident, India’s Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in New Delhi to express strong objection to the attack. With the US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gore, out of the country on a visit to Kazakhstan, the acting head of the embassy, Jason Mix, was called in. It has been reported that the Indian nationals caught in the US strike were safely rescued by Omani forces. The US Central Command stated that the Setebello tanker, flying the Palau flag, was attacked because it was continuing to transport oil from Iran despite breaching the imposed blockade. The command’s statement reads, “After repeated warnings were ignored by the crew, a US aircraft targeted the ship’s engine with precision weapons.”

This incident raises serious questions over the ongoing conflict and maritime trade security in the Gulf region. The United States imposed a blockade on Iranian ports starting April 13, in response to Tehran tightening control over shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The attack has intensified concerns about increasing military tensions in the Gulf, safety of maritime trade routes, and the security of Indian sailors caught in foreign conflicts. Meanwhile, there are no signs of de-escalation in tensions between Iran and the United States. US attacks on Iran have resumed after a military strike by the US and Israel on February 28 killed Iran’s supreme leader. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Israel and US regional allies in the Gulf. The conflict rapidly expanded to Lebanon by March. Although the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire in April, continuous accusations, new attacks, and growing mistrust have weakened the truce and increased the risk of renewed large-scale military confrontation.

Estadio Azteca: The World’s Only Stadium to Host Three FIFA World Cup Opening Matches

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Mexico’s Estadio Azteca is set to become the first stadium in the world to host the opening matches of three FIFA World Cups. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly organized by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature up to 48 teams starting from June 11, 2026. The historic Estadio Azteca will host the opening match between hosts Mexico and South Africa.

Certain stadiums in the history of world football are not only venues for matches but have become living monuments of the sport itself. Located in Mexico City, Estadio Azteca is one of the most significant football landmarks globally. This stadium made history by successfully hosting matches in three FIFA World Cups (1970, 1986, and 2026), becoming the only stadium to achieve this distinction.

During the golden era of Pelé, when Mexico first hosted the World Cup in 1970, Estadio Azteca served as the main venue of the tournament. The inaugural match on May 31, 1970, saw hosts Mexico face the Soviet Union, concluding in a goalless draw.

In a new chapter of modern football history, the 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off on June 11, 2026, marking the largest tournament with 48 teams under the joint hosting of the USA, Canada, and Mexico. With this opening match, Estadio Azteca will cement its record as the world’s first stadium to host opening matches of three different FIFA World Cup editions.

Children’s Right to Play Extends Beyond Paper Policy

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Although Nepal’s policies incorporate play-based learning, in practice, parents and schools often interpret play and study differently. There is a clear need to shift the perspective on assessing school quality by recognizing play as a fundamental component of children’s overall development. “Children learn as they play. The most important thing is to understand how children learn through play.” – O. Fred Donaldson. June 11 is International Play Day. Officially recognized by the United Nations starting in 2024, this day reminds us of the worldwide right of children to play and emphasizes the importance of play. It conveys that play is not merely a mode of entertainment, but a critical foundation for children’s holistic development, learning, and healthy childhoods.

Every year on this day, as someone working in early childhood development and education, I ask myself—are our children truly getting enough time to play? Reviewing Nepal’s policies, curricula, and early childhood development guidelines yields a positive answer. Concepts such as play-based learning, child-centered education, and experiential learning are clearly defined. However, interactions with schools, teachers, and parents reveal that while the importance of play is acknowledged on paper, it has yet to be fully embraced in practice. My experience running schools has repeatedly confirmed this. Every parent desires the best possible future for their child. Teachers want children to learn well. Schools share this goal. Yet, in pursuit of a better future, we sometimes overlook the immediate needs of children.

Not long ago, a parent told me, “My child plays all day; when will they study?” This question, driven by love and concern, also reveals a widespread mindset in our society. Many view play and study as two separate things: play as fun, and study as learning. But in early childhood, the reality is quite different. For children, play is learning. When children engage in role-play with peers, they are developing language skills. When stacking blocks, they are learning about shapes, balance, and mathematical thinking. Playing in groups fosters turn-taking, cooperation, and problem-solving. These skills form important foundations for the future. However, current societal pressures are altering the expectations of both parents and schools toward early education.

With growing global connectivity, the importance of international languages, and concerns about the future, many parents expect children to recognize letters, write, and use language from an early age. This expectation is natural, and schools also aim to meet it. Because of this, the value of play, stories, songs, drama, and experience-based learning is sometimes insufficiently emphasized. I believe the problem lies not in desire or commitment, but in a lack of shared understanding about the nature of learning. We all want children to learn well, but there needs to be wider dialogue and awareness about the many critical aspects of early learning that are embedded in play. It is essential to cultivate a culture that views play not as separate from study but as its foundation.

Another key topic is learning in an outdoor environment. Today, many children spend most of their time indoors. However, the learning world extends beyond the classroom walls. Experiences gained through playing in the soil, observing plants, experimenting with water, running under open skies, or spending time in nature cannot be provided by any book. A saying in the education revolution goes— the best learning is often found outside. In truth, nature itself is an open classroom for children. In a country like Nepal, rich in natural diversity, opportunities for outdoor learning are even greater. School yards, gardens, community open spaces, farmland, or village surroundings can be great sources of learning. Yet, we still largely restrict learning to books, notebooks, and classrooms.

So why is there a gap between policy and practice? From my experience, the main reason is a lack of awareness. Many parents have not fully realized that learning occurs through play. Many teachers value play but need ongoing support to effectively integrate it into daily teaching. Schools are trying to balance parental expectations and children’s needs. Closing this gap requires collective effort. Parents need to understand play as a learning tool, not a waste of time. Schools must prioritize children’s holistic development. Teachers require continuous professional support. Policymakers must ensure that play-based learning is genuinely happening in classrooms. Most importantly, the criteria used to measure school quality must change. A good school is not one where children learn to write or speak English quickly. A good school is one where children are happy, encouraged to ask questions, make mistakes, explore, and learn through play. As we celebrate International Play Day, I urge all parents, teachers, schools, and stakeholders—let children play. Let them play in the soil. Let them listen to stories. Let them sing songs. Let them ask questions. Let them run. Let them connect with nature. Because children playing are not just having fun—they are learning and building their future. Perhaps then we can say—the right to play is no longer confined to paper but is becoming visible in the daily lives of every child. (Rati Sharma works in school leadership, teacher capacity development, and child-centered learning.)

Public Accounts Committee Meeting Focuses on Transparency in Customs Procedures

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The meeting reviewed operational updates. The Public Accounts Committee convened to discuss the customs clearance and tax rate review for electric vehicles. MP Ganesh Singh Thagunna demanded a parliamentary investigation into the tax exemptions provided to electric vehicles. During the meeting, members emphasized controlling customs fraud, establishing a transparent tax system, and improving customs infrastructure. Kathmandu, 28 Jestha. The committee’s meeting today primarily addressed the transparency of customs clearance processes, policy stability, and customs management improvements related to electric vehicles (EVs). Committee members stressed the need to review issues ranging from customs clearance and tax rates to customs valuation processes for these EVs. They also offered various suggestions for enhancing customs management and reforms.

MP Aren Rai urged that clear information regarding tax regulations applied to electric vehicles be communicated to the public. MP Buddha Ratna Maharjan expressed concerns that imposing only tax burdens on citizens would not lead to national prosperity. Similarly, MP Mahendra Bahadur Shahi emphasized the importance of transparency in business and called for attention to customs infrastructure improvements. MP Yagya Bahadur Bogati highlighted the necessity of equipping the customs office with adequate facilities, while fellow member Ganesh Singh Thagunna reiterated that a parliamentary inquiry is essential regarding the tax exemptions granted to electric vehicles.

MP Rukesh Ranjit advocated for business-friendly tax policies. MP Bikram Thapa stressed the importance of effective budget implementation. MP Govinda Panthi noted the need for regular monitoring and a robust framework to control customs fraud. MP Manish Jha underscored the importance of systematic inspection, tax assessment, and revenue collection for imported and exported goods. Rastriya Samachar Samiti

Chhyadi Ghyang: The Emerging Tourist Destination of Helambu

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News Summary

  • On Jestha 24, 2083 (June 7, 2026), Helambu Rural Municipality held an executive meeting in the plain area of the new tourist destination, Chhyadi Ghyang, located at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level.
  • The meeting resolved to promote domestic tourism, focus on glacier conservation, and mitigate climate change, aiming to develop the area as a new tourist attraction.

Our journey to explore Helambu’s new tourist site, Chhyadi Ghyang, began from Boudha in Kathmandu, following the route via Melamchi to Helambu. This journey was not just a visit but a quest for the unique beauty and tranquility of nature.

Upon reaching Ghopte Ghyang within the Helambu Rural Municipality and tasting local delicacies, we started our trek along the Helambu Himalayan Great Trail. The recently constructed sections of the trail made the hike more comfortable.

 

After some time, the trail ascended and curved towards the forest. This area falls under Langtang National Park and is covered with dense forest. We were welcomed by various colorful flowers along the way. Rhododendrons of different species, including some still blooming white rhododendrons, adorned the trail making it delightful.

The sight of bees collecting nectar from the flowers was truly enchanting. The loud calls of various bird species brought life to the forest. The peaceful environment, birdsong, and greenery helped us forget our fatigue and filled our hearts with joy.

After about seven hours of trekking, we reached Tharepati, where comfortable hotels are available for lodging. From this location, it is also possible to visit the famed Gosainkunda. A two-hour journey from there brings us to Chhyadi Ghyang.

Situated at 4,200 meters above sea level, Chhyadi Ghyang is Helambu’s newest tourist destination. On Jestha 24, 2083, an historic executive meeting of the Helambu Rural Municipality was held in the area’s plains. The meeting decided to establish this place as a new tourism hub, prioritizing domestic tourism promotion, glacier conservation, and climate change mitigation.

Chhyadi Ghyang’s natural beauty, Himalayan views, dense forests, and tranquil environment make it well-suited for trekking. Its proximity to glaciers also makes the region ideal for studying the impacts of climate change.

This journey delivered a clear message: Helambu hosts many more beautiful destinations that, with proper development, can boost both domestic and international tourism.

We are confident that areas like Chhyadi Ghyang will provide new opportunities to elevate Nepal’s tourism to greater heights.

Chhyadi Ghyang

World Cup 2026: Reasons Behind Using AI-Enabled Footballs

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Why is AI-enabled football being used in this year’s World Cup? The upcoming football tournament, set to begin in a few weeks, will feature various new technologies. FIFA has provided details about these innovations, with the highlight being the technologically advanced football itself.

The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will use a highly advanced football. According to FIFA, while the ball will look and feel like a regular football, it possesses unique features. The “Trionda” smart ball contains sensors embedded in a chip that distinguish it from conventional balls.

FIFA states that this ball is capable of collecting data 500 times per second, allowing it to monitor every minute movement. This AI-powered football is expected to assist referees and officials in making accurate decisions by helping to identify common contentious issues such as handballs and offsides that often lead to disputes during matches.

Landslide in Lapse Khola Blocks Diktel–Chakhewa Road

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May 28, Khotang – The Diktel–Chakhewa road section in Khotang, part of the Mid-Hill Highway, has been blocked due to a landslide. Last night, a landslide occurred in the Lapse (Pankhu) Khola, connecting Buwasung and Lamidanda in Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality-8, completely obstructing the road. According to local teacher Dilipchandra Rai, the landslide came from Dhandakhark of Lamidanda located within the Gopini Naipa Community Forest area on the night of May 27.

The landslide, composed of loose soil and debris, damaged roads, culverts, and various structures in the lower areas. Due to the damage on the road, vehicles traveling between Bhojpur and Kathmandu, as well as those going from Diktel and Banachung towards Bhojpur on the eastern route, have been halted. The Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality has deployed dozers, excavators, and manpower to repair the damaged road.

Landslides have been a recurring issue in this area. On the morning of May 23, a flood in Lapse Khola damaged the road, causing traffic disruption for nine hours. Although there was a plan to construct a permanent bridge over Lapse Khola in 2016 (2073 BS), the project remains incomplete due to delays by the contractor. Without a bridge, passengers, freight vehicles, ambulances, motorcycles, and pedestrians are forced to wait for extended periods during the rainy season.

Grandy Stars and Training Ground Advance to Semifinals

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News Summary

  • Grandy Stars and Training Ground have advanced to the women’s semifinals of the 5th Nakhhipot Open Basketball Tournament.
  • In the men’s category, KVC Hounds and Dr. Airy secured their quarterfinal spots with victories.
  • Defending champions Nepal Army, along with Kirtipur, Engineering, Times, and Budhanilkantha, also reached the men’s quarterfinals.

June 10 (27 Jestha), Kathmandu – Grandy Stars and Training Ground have secured their places in the women’s semifinals of the 5th Nakhhipot Open Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament on Wednesday. Both teams advanced comfortably with decisive wins.

At the covered hall of the host Nakhhipot Youth Club in Nakhhipot, Grandy defeated ISA Nepal by a large margin of 61-11. Grandy’s Binamani Yonjan contributed 12 points. Maintaining the lead in all four quarters, Grandy posted quarter scores of 20-4, 12-3, 19-4, and 10-0.

Grandy advanced as the winner of Group ‘A’. ISA Nepal was eliminated from the tournament after suffering two consecutive defeats in the three-team group. Budhanilkantha, with one win, qualified for the semifinals as the group’s runner-up.

Training Ground, led by Yunisa’s 15 points, defeated NCCS 65-9. The team built a significant lead in the first quarter with an 18-2 score and maintained momentum throughout with subsequent quarter scores of 12-4, 12-0, and 23-3. Training Ground topped Group ‘B’, which included three teams, while Ballers qualified as runners-up for the semifinals.

In the men’s segment, KVC Hounds edged Solol by 87-85, and Dr. Airy beat Ballers 74-48 to secure their quarterfinal places. Pasang Maskey led KVC with an impressive 34 points, while Vikram Dangol was the top scorer for Dr. Airy with 33 points.

Additionally, defending champions Nepal Army, Kirtipur, Engineering, Times, and Budhanilkantha have also qualified for the men’s quarterfinal stage.

Twelve Power Tillers Handed Over to Landless Dalit Families in Siraha to Promote Farming Self-Reliance

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In Navarajpur Rural Municipality of Siraha, 12 power tillers worth NPR 842,953 have been distributed to landless Dalit families to empower them towards self-reliance in agriculture. A total of 304 landless members have benefited from this project, which is a collaborative effort between the local rural municipality, Dalit Welfare Youth Club, and the Mennonite Central Committee. Additionally, eight groups from four wards of the neighboring Wariyarpatti Rural Municipality received power tillers worth NPR 561,968. (28 Jestha, Siraha)

The distribution of 12 power tillers to landless Dalit families took place in the southern border region of Navarajpur Rural Municipality, Siraha, to promote agricultural self-sufficiency. This initiative is part of the ‘Integrated Livelihood and Agricultural Improvement Project,’ which targeted 12 out of 38 farmer groups from five wards with the provision of power tillers. The project is a collaborative partnership between the rural municipality, Dalit Welfare Youth Club, and the Mennonite Central Committee.

Umekumar Visunke, president of the club, shared that power tillers valued at NPR 842,953 were provided for 304 members across 12 groups to use on a rotational basis. He added, “Along with the power tillers, engine and gear oil as well as diesel fuel have also been supplied.” Under the project, landless Dalit families have also received support to lease land for growing grains and vegetables, and have been assisted in establishing grocery and mobile clothing shops to generate income.

According to social mobilizer Santoskumar Visunke, farmers were trained on operating the power tillers, and one operator has been assigned per group. Local resident Sulena Sadaya reported that through the project, 10 landless families have cultivated over two bighas and five katthas of leased land at an annual cost of NPR 41,100. She noted that farming has not only contributed to their families’ food security but also allowed them to begin saving money. Likewise, Lalprasad Pokharel, project coordinator, informed that power tillers worth NPR 561,968 were also distributed to eight groups across four wards of the neighboring Wariyarpatti Rural Municipality. He stated that cultivating leased land enables the landless Dalit families to improve their economic conditions.

Vinodkumar Yadav, ward chairperson of Wariyarpatti-3, highlighted that efforts are underway at the ward level to ensure secure housing, education for children, sanitation, and social development for landless Dalit families.